Technical Advisor – Environmental (Facilitator)

Job Posting Organization:
UNOPS (United Nations Office for Project Services) is a central resource of the United Nations that supports partners in building a better future by providing services that enhance the efficiency, effectiveness, and sustainability of peacebuilding, humanitarian, and development projects. Established to provide sustainable project management, procurement, and infrastructure services, UNOPS operates in approximately 125 countries, working with various governments, donors, and UN organizations. The New York Portfolios Office (NYPO) supports the UN Secretariat and other New York-based UN organizations in delivering UNOPS's mandate. The Sustainable Development Cluster (SDC) within UNOPS combines several portfolios to support diverse partners in their operations, focusing on sustainable development pathways through the conservation and management of biodiversity and ecosystems.

Job Overview:
The Technical Advisor – Environmental (Facilitator) will play a crucial role in advancing the Global Programme on Nature for Development, specifically through the NBSAP Accelerator Partnership. This position is designed to support the implementation of National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs) aligned with the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF). The facilitator will work closely with the host government and various stakeholders to identify and prioritize biodiversity needs, mobilize support, and foster collaboration among different sectors. The role requires a comprehensive understanding of biodiversity conservation and the ability to facilitate multi-stakeholder dialogues to ensure effective NBSAP implementation. The incumbent will be responsible for developing work plans, monitoring progress, and coordinating actions to align with national and global biodiversity goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assess NBSAP Landscape: Identify and monitor biodiversity priorities and implementation challenges within the country or region, including stakeholder mapping.
• Facilitate multi-stakeholder dialogues to develop a comprehensive work plan for NBSAP implementation support.
• Monitor NBSAP priorities and implementation progress, providing ongoing support and guidance.
• Mobilize support by identifying specific needs for technical capacity, financial resources, and political will.
• Assist in designing and developing requests for support and submit them to relevant stakeholders.
• Coordinate actions among existing initiatives to ensure a Whole of Government and Whole of Society approach.
• Share global best practices and facilitate knowledge exchange among stakeholders.
• Maintain regular communication with National Focal Points and prepare periodic reports on NBSAP implementation status.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess relevant experience in biodiversity conservation, project management, facilitation, and stakeholder engagement. Previous experience with NBSAPs and the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) is desirable. Experience working with government institutions and international organizations is an advantage. Candidates should demonstrate strong communication and interpersonal skills, as well as the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in environmental science, biodiversity conservation, natural resource management, or a related field is required, along with seven years of relevant experience. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (Bachelor’s degree or equivalent) with nine years of relevant experience is acceptable.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least seven years of relevant experience in biodiversity conservation, project management, or related fields. Experience working with NBSAPs and international biodiversity frameworks is highly desirable, as is a proven track record of collaboration with government and civil society organizations.

Languages:
Fluency in English (reading, writing, speaking) is required. Proficiency in a second official UN language is desirable, enhancing communication capabilities within the international context.

Additional Notes:
The contract type is an Individual Contractor Agreement (ICA) at the Local Individual Contractor Agreement (LICA-11) level. The contract duration is open-ended and renewable, subject to funding availability and satisfactory performance. The position is set for a duration up to 31 December 2025, with potential for extension. UNOPS encourages applications from qualified women and candidates from underrepresented groups, ensuring an inclusive working environment. All personnel are expected to adhere to UNOPS policies and demonstrate an understanding of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).